I think it is excellent that we have a holiday each year during which it is appropriate, and expected, that we express our gratitude. I need Thanksgiving. Like probably many of you, I often neglect to give thanks for the many blessings in my life, and Thanksgiving reminds me to do so.

In honor of our upcoming holiday, I want to say thank you to all of you who have been involved with UT Dallas this year. Thank you, especially, to the many UT Dallas alumni who are literally answering the call to support UT Dallas by donating over the telephone or via mail this month. Our student Comet Callers enjoy talking with you, and I appreciate that you take the time to talk with them.

Thank you for responding to our call to increase alumni participation. Last year, our alumni participation rate, which is one of the factors by which we as a university are ranked, grew to over 8%—an increase of almost 1.5% from the previous year. That participation translates into real support for UT Dallas' students and schools.

Whether you read the various emails we send you, attend an event or lecture, hire or mentor a student, volunteer your time, or donate to the university, your involvement with UT Dallas is an essential component of the community. Together, each of us is helping to create the future at UT Dallas. Thank you.

Erin Dougherty, '03 and '07
Director of Alumni Relations and Annual Giving